Best Kettlebells — Top Reviewed Brands for Homes, Gyms, and More

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Many assume that all kettlebells are created equal, but that’s not entirely true.In fact, a kettlebell can be as unique as the way you train, and finding the perfect fit can ensure you get the most out of your kettlebell workouts. At the surface, kettlebells all look similar in design, but as you read on you’ll learn there are multiple factors that make each kettlebell unique.

Over the last few months, we’ve spent hundreds of hours testing multiple kettlebells in a variety of scenarios. Like with everything in strength sports, we wanted to find the best kettlebell for every type of kettlebell workout and athlete. To remain consistent, we performed similar tests in every individual kettlebell review and used 24kg (53 lb) kettlebells.

In our tests, we looked at the in’s and out’s of a kettlebell’s construction. For example, we looked at things like what type of iron and steel the kettlebell is made out of, along with the casting process used. Next, we looked at the kettlebell’s handle and how it takes chalk, and if it enhanced or caused grip problems over long duration workouts.

Lastly, we assessed durability and price. We wanted to ensure that your investment would go the distance and took multiple factors into account to assess durability like paint chipping, welded on handles, and casting processes. Finally, the price. We wanted to know if your investment is worth what the kettlebell has to offer.

So what’s the best kettlebell on the market right now? We reviewed across multiple categories of kettlebells to help answer that question.

Best Kettlebells 2018

Best Overall

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

A powder coated kettlebell that is designed for versatile work outs and comes with a lifetime warranty.

To read about more kettlebell categories like best for the money, small hands, CrossFit, and much more, scroll down below!

How We Tested The Kettlebells

In terms of durability, we looked at multiple characteristics. For example, there are multiple ways to cast kettlebells, and often a bell’s casting process will correlate to its long-term durability. Additionally, we looked at a kettlebell’s coating, as this, like the casting process can be a signal for long-term durability with both grip and chipping on floors. By accounting for factors like this helped us assess the potential life of a kettlebell, so you can be ensured your money will go the distance.

On top of durability tests, we looked at the performance of every kettlebell. These are versatile pieces of workout equipment, so they need to perform well in multiple settings with both chalk and non-chalk users. Every handle’s coating and diameter can have an impact on grip, so we spent extra time assessing their ability to support long duration use.

Lastly, we assessed a kettlebell’s price. Let’s not beat around the bush here, investing in your own home gym equipment is a pretty big deal and you obviously want the most for your money. By taking the above two characteristics into account and comparing them with price, we tried to identify the benefits of each kettlebell for the money you’d be putting into them.

Best Reviewed Kettlebell

This kettlebell tops our list because it performed exceptionally well in all of our tests. We like the powder coating of the bell, which takes chalk very well and supports grip without it. Additionally, we’re fans of this kettlebell’s single-cast casting process, which gives the kettlebell an extremely durable feeling. Lastly, and possibly the biggest perk, is the lifetime warranty that comes along with the kettlebell.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

A powder coated kettlebell that is designed for versatile work outs and comes with a lifetime warranty.MoreLess

The Rogue Fitness Kettlebell earns our second pick for best reviewed kettlebell. Similar to the Kettlebell Kings Kettlebell, Rogue Fitness’ Kettlebell offers a lot of the same construction characteristics. We like the solid single-cast iron Rogue uses, which provides a lot of durability. Additionally, the flat bottom finish and powder coated handle are nice nods for multiple types of athletes who may reach for this kettlebell.

Our final pick for best reviewed kettlebell was the Rep Fitness Kettlebell. This kettlebell also offers single-cast gravity casting and has a flat bottom finish. There are green colored rings to signal the weight, which is a feature both Kettlebell Kings and Rogue Fitness offer as well. The main difference between the Rep Fitness kettlebell and the two brands above is the price. For a Rep Fitness Kettlebell at 24kg (53 lbs) you can expect to pay around $55.00, which is cost efficient for what the bell offers.

Best Kettlebell for Home Fitness & Home Use

Home kettlebell workouts can take shape in multiple forms and happen in multiple areas of the home. For this reason, we think kettlebell that offer rubber coating will serve this demographic best. This way, if you want to workout in your home, then you don’t have to worry about the bell messing up the floor. The Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebell is single-cast, has a solid powder coated handle, along with a flat bottom finish covered in a soft rubber material.

Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebell

Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebell

A single-cast iron kettlebell with a rubber coated, which makes this a good option for reducing forearm impact and indoor use.MoreLess

Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Highlights

Flat Bottom Finish

Smooth and Forgiving Rubber

Single-Cast Iron, and Powder Coated Handle

The Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell earns our second pick for the best home fitness kettlebell. This kettlebell has a rubber coating similar to the Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebell. The main difference is that this rubber coating is a bit thicker and doesn’t form fit around the handle and ball. In terms of drop tests and nicking floors, we think this kettlebell is a solid option for those working out in their homes.

Our final kettlebell for home fitness workouts and use is the Spri Vinyl Kettlebell. This kettlebell is most similar to the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell, but has a slightly thinner handle and similar vinyl/rubber coating. We like the feeling of the rubber coating on this kettlebell and think it’s an option that would best serve those who want to workout in-home, but also may be newer to using kettlebells.

Best Competition Kettlebell

A great competition kettlebell will not only match the dimensions needed to legally compete, but it will be constructed with the thought of long-term use in mind. The Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell meets all of the competition measurement requirements, and is constructed with a single-cast steel material. The handle of this kettlebell is a finished steel, which makes it an easy option to use for long periods of time.

Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell

Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell

The Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell is a durable steel kettlebell that provides competition dimensions and a flat bottom finish.MoreLess

Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell Highlights

Solid Single Cast Steel

Competition Dimensions

Smooth and Slightly Slimmer Handle

The Kettlebell Kings Steel Standard Kettlebell is our second pick for best competition kettlebell. One thing to note, this kettlebell has competition dimensions, but isn’t legal to use in formal kettlebell competition. That isn’t to say it’s not a great competition focused kettlebell. This bell is designed with with a lot of the same features as top competition kettlebells, but isn’t covered in the standard competition kg weight coloring. Also, it comes with Kettlebell Kings lifetime warranty.

Our final choice competition kettlebells was the Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebell. Similar to the two kettlebells above this bell also meets legal competition dimensions. Of these three bells, this bell is the most unique. There are four flat surfaces on each side of the kettlebell where it lies on the forearm. We like this feature and think it makes this kettlebell a nice choice for those who may be newer to the longer kettlebell competition style workouts and want to avoid excessive forearm impact.

Best Kettlebell for Beginners

The Onnit Kettlebell earned our top spot for the best kettlebell for beginners for two important reasons.

Onnit Kettlebell Construction

Onnit has grown in popularity through their supplements and workout equipment. Their kettlebell comes equipped with a durable chip resistant coating, which gives this bell a slightly rigid feeling. We like that the chip resistant coating doesn’t tear up the forearm and also takes chalk well, and enhances grip well without it. The second aspect we like about this kettlebell is the flat bottom finish and high-def labeling, which makes it versatile for any beginner athlete’s workout ask.

Onnit Kettlebell

Onnit Kettlebell

A quality cast iron kettlebell that provides a unique grip and finish to resist chipping and premature breakdown.MoreLess

Onnit Kettlebell Hightlights

Non-Chip Surface

Great Grip for Non-Chalk and Chalk Use

Flat Bottom Finish

The AmazonBasics Enamel Kettlebell is our second kettlebell pick for the beginning athlete. This kettlebell is about as basic as it gets, which is ironic when you consider its name. It comes with a slightly wider handle, so a beginner can easily get a decent grip from every angle. In addition, the surface is covered with an enamel, so the bell is smooth, but provides some grip. If you’re new to gripping kettlebells or metal, this kettlebell is a good choice for avoiding excessive hand wear and tear.

The final kettlebell that makes our list for the beginner is the TRX Kettlebell. When you think kettlebell, the TRX Kettlebell embodies what most think about. It’s a standard single-cast kettlebell that comes with a solid flat bottom finish. We like this kettlebell’s durability and simplicity in design. For the beginner, learning movements is key and this kettlebell is a good option to do so without the additional features, bells, and whistles.

Best Kettlebell Brand

In reality, all of the brands below are solid choices, but the Rogue Fitness Kettlebell earned our top spot for a few reasons. We like this kettlebell because it’s a dynamic option for multiple types of athletes. The powder coated finish gives it a grip that matches both chalk and non-chalk user’s needs, and the flat bottom finish keeps it from toppling over easily. We also like that this kettlebell is single-cast gravity cast, so it’s both durable and consistent.

Rogue Fitness Kettlebell

Rogue Fitness Kettlebell

A single-cast iron kettlebell that has markings to indicate its weight, a powdercoat, and flatbottom finish.MoreLess

Rogue Fitness Kettlebell Highlights

Single-Cast Gravity Casting Process

Powder Coat Finish

Flat Bottom Finish

The Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat takes our second pick for the best brand. This kettlebell is also an awesome pick for someone looking to invest in their own bell. It’s created with a single-cast gravity casting and is about as durable as a kettlebell can get. In addition, if you ever have issues with this kettlebell it comes with a lifetime warranty. The powder coating is slightly more rigid and supports grip with and without chalk.

Our final pick is the Kettlebells USA Metrixx® Classic E-Coat Kettlebell, and this kettlebell could easily take the top spot as well. This bell is single-cast gravity cast as well, but has a coating that is very unique. The e-coating Kettlebell USA uses is one of the most durable coatings you can have put on a kettlebell. This kettlebell’s surface takes chalk well, and supports grip without it. The bottom is flat and it has a very simple design to keep it feeling consistent.

Best Kettlebell for CrossFit®-Style Workouts

CrossFit style workouts take multiple forms, and for that reason we thought a kettlebell that matches multiple needs deserves the top spot. We’ve talked about this kettlebell a few times in this round-up, but it’s on our list once again. The powder coating is great for both chalk and non-chalk workouts, which are common among CrossFit athletes. And possible the biggest aspect that earns this bell our top spot is the lifetime warranty. Accidents happen (like dropped bells) when you’re moving through fast workouts, so a lifetime warranty is a nice touch to ensure your investment goes the distance.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Kettlebell

A powder coated kettlebell that is designed for versatile work outs and comes with a lifetime warranty.MoreLess

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coated Bell Highlights

Dynamic Grip for Versatile Workouts

Single-Cast for Durability

Flat Bottom Finish

Our next kettlebell choice for CrossFit-style workouts was the Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebell. We like the regular Rogue Fitness Kettlebell, but think this bell deserves a spot on our CrossFit list because the rubber coating provides a slight cushion for prolonged fast paced workouts. To add to this point, this kettlebell’s powder coated handle also takes chalk well, but performs solidly without it. If you’re worried about continual wrist impact through a workout, then this kettlebell is a good option.

The Rep Fitness Kettlebell earns our final spot for best kettlebells for CrossFit. This kettlebell is similar to Kettlebell Kings and comes with a powder coat finish. It takes chalk well and performs solid without it, so it’s good for multiple settings. Additionally, it offers a flat bottom finish, so it doesn’t topple over easily when setting it down in-between exercises. The main reason this kettlebell made our list was for its price at $55.00. For a kettlebell at 24kg (53 lbs) that’s a choice for your investment.

Best Kettlebell for the Money

So you’re worried about your money and want the most cost efficient kettlebell for your investment. Below we’ve included four kettlebells that are solid options for those most concerned about their wallets.

Around $55

Rep Fitness Kettlebell

Rep Fitness Kettlebell

A fully cast iron kettlebell that has a chip resistant coating and a handle that will fit a variety of user's hand sizes.

Best Kettlebell for Small Hands

This kettlebell earns our top spot for three major reasons. First, this kettlebell has dimensions similar to a competition kettlebell, which means it has a 33mm diameter handle. The handle itself is a solid steel and provides the hand with a decent grip while also supporting both chalk and non-chalk performance. If you’re concerned about kettlebell’s handle diameter, then we’re confident this kettlebell will be your best bet.

Kettlebell Kings Steel Standard

Kettlebell Kings Steel Standard

A steel kettlebell with a slightly smaller handle that is designed for versatile work outs and comes with a lifetime warranty.MoreLess

Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebell Highlights

Smaller Handle for All Hand Sizes

Grip Takes Chalk, but Performs Well Without

The second kettlebell for small hands that makes our list is the Ader Pro Grade Kettlebell. Much like the Kettlebell Kings Steel Standard bell, the Ader Pro Grade kettlebell also has competition focused dimensions for the handle, aka 33mm. On top of the slimmer handle, this bell’s handle is made out of a solid smoothed down steel, which makes it easy to get a grip in multiple settings.

Our final kettlebell pick for small hands is the RKC Official Russian Kettlebell. This kettlebell is about as solid as a kettlebell can get and offers a handle that’s slightly larger than 33mm, but is pretty comparable. In addition, we like the coating on this bell’s handle and hybrid-esque thickness, so multiple athletes could use the bell with ease

Best Kettlebell for Cardio

We like this kettlebell for cardio based workouts for two major reasons. In reality, every kettlebell could perform well in cardio based workouts, but this kettlebell’s flattened edges gave it a slight edge. These edges make prolonged use easier on the forearm, so repetitive impact isn’t too tough on the arm. Additionally, the handle is 33mm in diameter, so it will match multiple athlete’s hand sizes.

Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebell

Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebell

A single-cast iron kettlebell that provides competition dimensions and a durable coating to ensure a long-lasting bell.MoreLess

Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebell Highlights

Flattened Edges Limit Impact

Smaller Handle That Works Well and Without Chalk

Single-Cast Gravity Casting for Durability

Our next pick for best cardio based kettlebell workouts is the Onnit Kettlebell. The chip resistant coating on this bell makes it super easy on the hand and forearms. Also, the grip itself takes chalk well and performs adequately without it. Lastly, this kettebell’s handle has a decent diameter to it and will serve a variety of hand sizes with ease, so you won’t have to struggle maintaining your grip for long periods.

The final pick that makes our list best cardio focused kettlebell is the Spri Vinyl Kettlebell. This kettlebell offers a different take on prolonged use, as it has the thicker vinyl coating. If you’re worried about iron or steel making impact with your forearm for long workouts, then this kettlebell could be a good option. Also, this kettlebell has a smoother coating on the handle, which doesn’t tear up the hand incredibly bad.

Wrapping Up

If this kettlebell round-up still didn’t help you find your perfect bell, then I hope it at least provided more thoughts to consider before investing. Every kettlebell is like a tree, at the surface they appear somewhat similar in design, but when you dig into their roots they differ pretty drastically.

The main thing to consider before making any investment in strength equipment is how it will mesh with your lifting style. With so many kettlebell uses and workout needs, then we’re confident you can find your perfect kettlebell on this list, or at least gain a better idea of what to look for.

Jake holds a Master's in Sports Science and a Bachelor's in Exercise Science. Currently, Jake serves as the Fitness and Training Editor at BarBend. He's a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and has spoken at state conferences on the topics of writing in the fitness industry and building a brand. As of right now, Jake has published over 1,200 articles related to strength athletes and sports. Articles about powerlifting concepts, advanced strength & conditioning methods, and topics that sit atop a strong science foundation are Jake's bread-and-butter. On top of his personal writing, Jake edits and plans content for 15 writers and strength coaches who come from every strength sport. Prior to BarBend, Jake worked for two years as a strength and conditioning coach for hockey and lacrosse players, and a personal trainer the three years before that, and most recently he was the content writer at The Vitamin Shoppe's corporate office. Jake competes in powerlifting in the 181 lb weight class, and considers himself a professional knee rehabber after tearing his quad squatting in 2017. On the side of writing full time, Jake works as a part-time strength coach and works with clients through his personal business Concrete Athletics in New York City.

I think I could really use that kettle ball to strengthen my back. After having whiplash from a car accident a go to the chiropractor a lot if I could strengthen the muscles it would keep my back in place better

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